Arts preview: Festival Latino

Ah, Festival Latino. The chance to stuff your face with south-of-the-border fare ranging from Puerto Rico to Venezuela, and then attempt to haphazardly work it off with some salsa dancing (or in my case, sitting on a sidewalk ledge slurping a pina colada or tropical juice).

Since its inception in 1996, Festival Latino has garnered more attention from the public eye and has responded with nationally recognized acts. This year, Saturday and Sunday are headlined by Diana Reyes and Ruben Blades, respectively.

The music will be supported by an enlightening display of visual art from Latin-American artists as well as kids’ events. Hands-on workshops will also be available, going over everything from dancing to taekwondo.

Columbus' Festival Latino is one of the finest outlets to head down the Latin-American way while keeping it local. Annually gracing us with its variety of authentic cuisine, music and dancing, few events are better suited as summer's last hurrah.